Symptoms that Commonly Occur with TMJ Dysfunction

Symptoms that Commonly Occur with TMJ Dysfunction

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is unique in the body, allowing a person to both open and close the mouth but also to slide the bottom jaw from side to side and forward and back. These functions are vital for everything from speaking to chewing. It is no wonder that TMJ dysfunction can really disrupt a person’s life if it becomes chronic. Here are some common symptoms that accompany TMJ dysfunction along with a way to find natural, drug-free relief.

The Symptoms of TMJ Dysfunction

If you are suffering from any of the following, a problem with the TMJ may be involved:

Jaw pain that may radiate toward the neck and ears

A stiff jaw

Limited range of jaw motion

A popping or clicking sound that occurs when opening and closing the mouth

The upper and lower teeth suddenly fit together differently

For many, jaw pain is temporary and goes away without care. But what if you suffer from chronic jaw problems? Upper cervical chiropractic may offer the drug-free solution you’ve been searching for.

Upper Cervical Chiropractic and Jaw Pain

The top bones of the spine (C1 and C2) are positioned at the base of the skull near both the ears and jaw hinges. As a result, even a slight misalignment can affect the way the TMJ moves or the proper alignment of the jaw and ears. The result can be pain in the face, neck, ears, and jaw as well as the other symptoms noted above.

When a misalignment is the underlying cause of jaw problems, correcting this root issue is a necessary element in finding long-term relief. On your first visit to an upper cervical chiropractor, detailing diagnostic imaging will be performed to measure C1 and C2 alignment to hundredths of a degree in accuracy. This reveals if a misalignment may be the cause of the problem and gives the chiropractor the ability to tailor an adjustment that meets your specific needs.

Adjustments are always gentle and are provided on an as-needed basis. That means you can go longer between visits as your alignment holds, making this a cost-effective option as well. To learn more, schedule an examination with a practitioner in your vicinity.

The content and materials provided in this web site are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to supplement or comprise a medical diagnosis or other professional opinion, or to be used in lieu of a consultation with a physician or competent health care professional for medical diagnosis and/or treatment. All content and materials including research papers, case studies and testimonials summarizing patients' responses to care are intended for educational purposes only and do not imply a guarantee of benefit. Individual results may vary, depending upon several factors including age of the patient, severity of the condition, severity of the spinal injury, and duration of time the condition has been present.